Frontline Plus for Cats: One Option to Keep Fleas and Ticks Away
Key takeaways:
Frontline Plus is a monthly flea and tick preventive treatment for cats. It’s a topical medication that is applied to the skin.
The risk of side effects with Frontline Plus for Cats is low. Cats who do experience side effects often have itchiness or hair loss at the site the medication was applied.
The medication is available over the counter without a prescription for cats who weigh at least 1.5 lbs and are at least 8 weeks old.
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Table of contents
Fleas and ticks are common concerns for pet owners. Fortunately, several preventive treatments are available to avoid flea and tick infestations in cats.
Frontline Plus is a topical, over-the-counter, monthly parasite preventive treatment for cats. When applied correctly, Frontline Plus can prevent fleas and ticks.
Frontline Plus for cats at a glance
Common names | Frontline Plus (fipronil / [S]-methoprene) |
What it treats | Fleas, ticks, and lice |
How it comes (forms) | Topical medication applied to skin |
Dosage | One size only for cats weighing over 1.5 lbs |
Common side effects | Redness, itchiness, or hair loss where medication is applied |
Average cost |
What is Frontline Plus for cats, and how does it work?
Frontline Plus is a topical flea and tick preventive medication that is applied to a cat’s skin. Once applied, Frontline Plus spreads through a cat’s body and is absorbed into the oil glands. The oil glands then release Frontline Plus gradually over time.
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Frontline Plus contains two active ingredients: fipronil and (S)-methoprene. These attack fleas and ticks in two ways to kill adult pests and prevent eggs and larvae from growing into adults.
In addition to killing fleas and ticks, Frontline Plus also kills chewing lice. Fortunately, lice are relatively uncommon in cats. But they do occur, and they can cause significant problems in cats.
These parasites aren’t just disgusting and annoying; they can also spread disease to your cats. That’s why the Companion Animal Parasite Council recommends giving your cat year-round parasite prevention.
Frontline Plus is FDA approved for cats, and it’s available over the counter without a prescription.
What is the dosage of Frontline Plus for cats, and how is it given?
Apply Frontline Plus once monthly for protection against fleas and ticks. There is only one size of Frontline Plus for cats. This means you don’t need to know your cat’s weight to buy the right size of Frontline Plus.
But make sure you buy the cat version of the medication. Never give cats flea medication designed for dogs; dog flea medicines are toxic to cats.
Flea treatments: Frontline Plus is one option to prevent fleas in cats. Here are some other options.
Flea bites on people: Think you have a flea bite? These photos show what flea bites look like on people.
Cat overgrooming: Cats regularly groom themselves. But sometimes, including if they have fleas, it can be a sign of a problem. Here’s when to get help.
How to apply Frontline Plus for cats
Apply Frontline Plus to your cat’s skin, between the shoulder blades. Follow these instructions:
Remove a single applicator from the package.
Hold the applicator upright, with the foil side facing toward you.
Snap off the applicator tip.
Part your cat’s hair between the shoulder blades.
Apply Frontline Plus directly to your cat’s skin, in a single spot between the shoulders. Make sure the medication reaches the skin and does not get absorbed by the coat.
Avoid petting the affected area until dry.
What are the common side effects of Frontline Plus in cats?
Most cats tolerate Frontline Plus well, with few side effects. But side effects can happen. When they do, they are usually mild.
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The most common side effects of Frontline Plus include:
Redness and irritation of the skin at the application site
Hair loss at the application site
Drooling (in cats who lick the application site)
Skin irritation after applying Frontline Plus is relatively uncommon in cats. If you do notice skin issues, talk to your veterinarian. Some cats may be sensitive to active or inactive ingredients in Frontline Plus. If your cat reacts to Frontline Plus, your veterinarian may recommend a different product.
Drooling after Frontline Plus application usually means your cat has licked the medication. This drooling is a reaction to the product’s taste, not a sign of illness. Prevent this by applying Frontline Plus high on your cat’s neck, where they cannot turn around and lick it.
What are the most serious risks with Frontline Plus for cats?
More significant side effects with Frontline Plus are rare, but some cats may experience them. These effects may include vomiting, neurological signs (excitability, incoordination), or shortness of breath. If you see serious side effects after applying Frontline Plus, contact a veterinarian.
Does Frontline Plus interact with other cat medications?
Frontline Plus is not known to interact with other cat medications. But it’s important to make sure your veterinarian is aware of all medications your cat takes. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications and nutritional supplements. This knowledge will help your veterinarian reduce the risk of medication interactions.
The bottom line
Frontline Plus is a common, safe, and effective flea and tick preventive medication for cats. This preventive treatment is available over the counter. But it is important to buy it from a trusted source to ensure that you aren’t receiving counterfeit medication. Ask a veterinarian if Frontline Plus is a good parasite prevention option for your cat.
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References
British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (2024). Dangers of using your dog’s flea and tick medication on your cat.
Cornell Feline Health Center. (n.d.). Fleas: A source of torment for your cat. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Cornell Feline Health Center. (n.d.). Ticks and your cat. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Pets and Parasites. (n.d.). Resources. Companion Animal Parasite Council.
Tater, K., et al. (2019). Client flea/tick chart for cats.
Thomas, J. E. (2024). Lice of cats. Merck Veterinary Manual.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Veterinary drugs.
